You're not alone. Here's a safe place, a growing place, a way out of the shadows of grief . . . This blog provides resources and Biblical direction for helping you trust Jesus through one of life's most difficult challenges.

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Monday, December 31, 2012

It's just not that easy, is it? To forget a lifetime of love and "move on?"

That's the struggle and work of grief: to bring some resolution and healing to the past, and to begin to look ahead with more anticipation than dread. On some days, it doesn't seem possible that will ever be the case. But over time, as we make good choices and take some positive action, life will become worth living again.

For the Christian, we might be surprised at how painful this whole process is, but we still can count on the fact of God's good purpose for us. There's "life after death" not only for our loved one who passed, but also for those who remain. I love how "The Message" Bible puts it in words:

This resurrection life you received from God is not a timid, grave-tending life. It’s adventurously expectant, greeting God with a childlike “What’s next, Papa?” God’s Spirit touches our spirits and confirms who we really are. We know who he is, and we know who we are: Father and children. And we know we are going to get what’s coming to us—an unbelievable inheritance! We go through exactly what Christ goes through. If we go through the hard times with him, then we’re certainly going to go through the good times with him! (Romans 8:15-17 The Message)

So as you face 2013, picture yourself standing at a doorway, watching it come. Know that your past life will always be a part of you, but begin to stir up that childlike expectation. You don't have to do a clean sweep----out with the old, in with the new---just get ready with a "What's next, Papa?' For, as the end of Romans 8:17 says, if we go through hard times with him, then we're certainly going to go through good times too. Are you ready for so much hope?

2 comments:

What a beautiful doorway. When one door closes another one opens and this one is such an inviting entranceway leading to the graduated steps that are easily climbed for those of us who have knees that once worked swell, and now they are clearly swollen probably from eating too much salt today. However, this picture is so enjoyable to me as I eagerly await Spring's return and anything that looks remotely green is welcomed back. Thanks for posting.

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Ferree's book ...

"...one of the BEST books I've read for Widows!" Kathy E., widow

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Take hope, my friend, join in and watch the darkness turn to light and gather strength for your journey. You'll see the ways others have struggled, survived and thrived. You'll discover key Scriptures and insights from God's Word that will feed your soul and give you hope. Click on the Memorial Wall tab above, pray for these women and add your own listing. This blog is about you and God's work in the hearts of widows!

As we grieve, life continues on around us; we need to make adjustments and function inspite of our struggles. So this blog not only addresses grief and gives you role models, it also looks at the single-living skills, spiritual disciplines, laughter, rest and the renewing worship you'll need to juggle.

Some articles are food for thought, some are quick and helpful tips, and every once in a while we'll get just plain silly because laughter is still good medicine.

There's a new life waiting to meet you, and a new hope waiting to bloom in your heart. But don't worry about that for now. God knows you want your old life back. He understands. So for now, just visit, rest, relax and renew for the journey ahead.

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